The Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA) has lamented the growing and flagrant abuse of lanes designated for Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) buses by unauthorised users.

In a statement on Wednesday, LAMATA identified the abusers to include some military personnel, para-military agencies, local government and Local Council Development Area (LCDA) buses, as well as private vehicles.

LAMATA said the lanes are for buses and vehicles operating under franchises duly regulated by the agency, noting that the only exceptions to this rule are emergency response vehicles such as fire trucks and ambulances, and only when responding to emergencies.

It lamented that the abuse of the lanes is deeply concerning and undermines the BRT system’s efficiency, safety, and purpose.

“The BRT lane was specifically designed to provide fast, reliable, and safe mass transit for the commuting public. Unauthorised use not only disrupts scheduled operations but also endangers passengers and other road users, contributes to traffic congestion, and erodes the gains made in improving urban mobility across Lagos State.

“LAMATA wishes to state unequivocally that the regulations guiding the use of the BRT lane remain in full force and will be strictly enforced. All offenders, regardless of status or affiliation, will be apprehended and prosecuted in accordance with the relevant traffic laws of Lagos State. Penalties may include fines, impoundment of vehicles, and other legal sanctions as prescribed by law,” LAMATA said.

The agency called on all road users, including security agencies and government bodies, to respect the integrity of the BRT system and comply fully with established regulations.

“Cooperation from all stakeholders is essential to sustaining an efficient and world-class transport system for Lagos.

“The Authority remains committed to ensuring order, safety, and efficiency across the state’s transport network and will not hesitate to take decisive action against violators,” it said. (The Guardian)